Kenya Mission
Through the Grace of God, our youth and congregants, led by Reverend Father Paul Elias , traveled to Kenya to serve our brothers and sisters on the island, under the guidance of His Grace Bishop Boules of Kenya. The trip started on June 19th until June 28th. Please take a few minutes to read about the experiences of our group and plan to join us next year when we head back to Kenya.
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Bishop Boules
We will be blessed to serve with His Grace Bishop Boules of Kenya
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Father Paul Elias
The Mission will be lead by Father Paul Elias from St. Mary Magdalene Coptic Church in Palm Desert, California.
The photo is of a Kenyan deacon praying the liturgy on a mountain top in Maseno
“This trip was truly life changing. Getting the opportunity to do life with the Kenyans and learn from their powerfully faithful way of living was a genuine honor. I think I had the perception before the trip that the poverty and struggle of the people’s lives would be the most impactful part of the trip. While we definitely did witness a level of destitution I had never before seen, what impacted me the most about the people of Kenya was actually the depth and richness of their gratitude and joy. All the material “extras” I fill my life with bar me from experiencing Christ in the profound way the Kenyans do. I can’t wait to go back as soon as possible.”
My first mission trip to Kenya was with Coptic DOME, and I pray I never forget the experiences I had there. From serving in an orphanage, to visiting people’s homes, visiting a baby shower, working in the hospitals, and preaching in the prison, I had the opportunity to meet God fearing people and experience a love so deep. This trip taught me the importance of God’s plan for us. We often prepare all we can, but God likes to remind us that we’re in His hands at all times. I’m grateful to have experienced this humbling love.
Seeing the pure joy in little Precious’s face, or Mama Ana, the Kenyan church choir, and even the prisoners taught me to appreciate God’s gifts to us. I went to Kenya thinking I would be there to serve, but the people there taught me more than I could’ve taught them.
Thank you to Anba Boules, Abouna Paul, Abouna Joseph and all the Kenyan Abounas for guiding us throughout the trip. I am grateful to have left Kenya with lifelong friendships and memories imprinted on my heart. Asante Kenya. - Justina Antoon
I could have never imagined what I would experience in Kenya. Despite being advised to have no expectations, I naturally came with some- and each and every one of them was surpassed. I knew the people would be kind, but I didn’t expect to be greeted with warm smiles and generous hospitality from every single person. They lovingly welcomed us into their homes and formed bonds with us that transcended language barriers. As I’ve always had a love for children, I knew I’d love the kids, but didn’t expect for them to enter my heart so deeply. These youth are full of curiosity for the Faith and eagerness to grow the Church- they are the future. This trip was certainly not without its challenges, but I’m immensely thankful for the lessons I learned. Kenya has taught me the true meaning of gratitude, community, and the beauty of simplicity. We returned home with a renewed sense of purpose, vowing to continue supporting these incredible communities from afar and cherishing the memories we made during our time in Kenya. I will forever hold this mission trip close to my heart, and I am immensely grateful for the opportunity to have been part of something so meaningful. - Amanda Androus
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